Citizens' money: Our life on the couch - that's what the recipients say!

Citizens' money: Our life on the couch - that's what the recipients say!

Plau am See, Deutschland - In Germany, the citizens' allowance ensures controversial discussions and political disputes. This basic security for job seekers has replaced the former unemployment benefit II since 2023, better known as Hartz IV with monthly amounts of 563 euros for single people and 506 euros for partners, it should offer beneficiaries a safe minimum. But not all recipients actively drive the search for employment, as the RTL-two social reportage "Armes Germany" shows.

Nico and Janine, citizen benefit recipient from Plau am See, say in the reportage that they have been living from state services and reject regular work for years. While Janine says: "I actually live for every day, sometimes see what's coming", Nico sees "great privileges" in the state achievements and sees no reason to make an effort. However, their attitude is not representative of the majority of citizens' money recipients who often want more support in returning to their professional life. This episode of "Armes Germany" will be broadcast on RTL on May 6, 2025 at 8:15 p.m., and therefore not only shows personal fates, but also raises questions of how the citizen benefit is perceived in society.

political debate and social reality

The political discussion about the citizens' allowance is fueled by the Union and FDP's demands for cuts. Current plans from 2023 provide savings of 1.5 billion euros. Surveys show that two thirds of the citizens support savings in the citizens' allowance. In a larger context, it must be taken into account that the federal government is investing more in social services than before Corona pandemic. Social politicians point out that around 5.5 million people in Germany receive citizenship, including 1.8 million children and adolescents.

The challenges for citizen benefit recipients are complex. Over two million are not available for the labor market for health reasons or due to a lack of childcare, while 1.7 million are considered unemployed, but often do not have the necessary qualifications. A look at the demographic composition also shows that 62 percent of households have no German passport in civil allowance, which leads to further prejudices and signal effects in society.

prejudices and reality of long -term unemployment

Prejudices about so -called "lazy" long -term unemployed are widespread. Sociologists support a differentiated perspective and emphasize that many affected people have difficulty integrating into the labor market. The aspects such as social origin, knowledge of German and the recognition of educational titles are crucial for integration into the labor market. Although only 0.4 percent of the citizens' money recipients refuse to work, there is still a lot of ignorance of the reality of long -term unemployed.

Citizens' money offers better protection in the event of unemployment and supports measures for further training. The control rates were increased by 12 percent in 2024, which is above the inflation rate. At the same time, the pressure on the recipient has been reduced to start a new work immediately. This is intended to help more people find a perspective on long -term employment.